Tennessee commits and recruiting targets react to Jeremy Pruitt hire

The Tennessee coaching search lasted longer than many people thought, but the Vols have their man.

Tennessee has named Alabama defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt as its next head coach.

Pruitt brings a strong defensive background to the Vols

Pruitt is known as a relentless recruiter. Here are what some of his commits and targets had to say about the hire. The responses have been mostly positive, though safety Trey Dean did de-commit shortly following the news.

* – Committed to Tennessee

Brant Lawless, Class of 2018 4-star, defensive line *

“I don’t know much about coach Pruitt, but that would be great for the program. I would love to have someone that is a big defensive guy, so that way I don’t have to worry about the defense getting messed up or anything.”

Jerome Carvin, Class of 2018, offensive tackle

“I think it was a good hire, I’ve talked with coach Pruitt a couple of times before when he was at Alabama. He seems like a great person, and he knows what he is doing”

Brady Ward, Class of 2020, offensive tackle

“Coach Pruitt is a great hire. He currently recruits me for Alabama. He’s an outstanding recruiter and coach. He’s been successful at FSU, Georgia, and Alabama. I have Tennessee as one of my Top schools and that has not changed with the hiring of Coach Pruitt. If anything, it’s made it stronger.”